Authors' objectives: At present, eight genetic centres are recognized in Belgium. However, no national guideline exists on the indications for genetic testing, and most centres follow their own protocols. Therefore, uniform criteria are needed for the identification and referral of patients to genetic centres for counselling, possibly followed by germline mutation analysis. It is important to provide such guidance to all clinicians active in the field. This guideline is timely because the new nomenclature, introduced on 1/1/2013, for genetic tests (article 33) and the agreement on genetic testing consultation led to redistribute the NIHDI budget between genetic counselling (€4,288 millions) and laboratory procedures (€37,795 millions). There is a need to standardise the use of these tests and base their use on available evidence. Early identification of persons at risk makes the initiation strategies possible that may reduce morbidity or be lifesaving, including enhanced surveillance and prophylactic surgery. It may also help the patient in making decisions concerning preconception and antenatal screening and reproduction in general.

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2015

URL for published report: http://kce.fgov.be/sites/default/files/page_documents/KCE_242_Endocrine_cancer_syndrome_Report.pdf

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Belgium

Organisation Name: Belgian Health Care Knowledge Centre

Contact Address: Administrative Centre Botanique, Doorbuilding (10th floor), Boulevard du Jardin Botanique 55, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium tel: +32 2 287 33 88 fax: +32 2 287 33 85

Contact Name: info@kce.fgov.be

Contact Email: info@kce.fgov.be

Copyright: Belgian Health Care Knowledge Centre (KCE)